Our Miami orthodontist office is at the forefront of using proven high tech procedures, materials and equipment. We understand the importance of choosing an orthodontist office that truly cares about the quality of service it provides. That is why we go to great lengths to make sure that your experience with us is a pleasant one. Though we take our work very seriously we pride ourselves on doing it in a fun way. We want you to enjoy coming to see us and to feel comfortable with the treatment you receive.

We provide a friendly, courteous and fun atmosphere. We have the privilege of treating you to a high tech experience and we take pride on doing it in a fun way. Please take a few minutes to explore our web site and find out more about Higley Orthodontic Specialist.

==============

Q: At what age should someone see an orthodontist?
A:Most Authorities Agree that six or seven is a good age for your child’s first orthodontic examination. Conditions may be found that can be corrected at this early age by interceptive measures. This often will lessen or eliminate the need for help at an older age. That in turn can be a savings in the total cost of your child’s orthodontic correction. Breakage of the two upper front teeth often happens between the ages of 6 to 7 years old. When children have protruding teeth and hit something, the teeth are broken 82% of the time. When the teeth are positioned correctly in the mouth, they are only broken 9% of the time.

EARLY TREATMENT INCREASES THE CHILD’S SELF-CONCEPT

WE CAN HELP CHILDREN WITH BREATHING PROBLEMS, which can be treated at an early age, that even Nose Doctors (Rhinologists) cannot help even with surgery. This is a painless procedure.

Q: What is an orthodontist?
A: An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has successfully completed at least two academic years of continuous advanced studies in an orthodontic program of a dental school or institution approved by the American Dental Association. This advanced training includes such diverse studies as physics, embryology, genetics, human growth and development, biophysics and engineering. Only those dentists with this advanced education can announce that they are orthodontists.

Q: What causes crooked teeth?
A: Crowded teeth, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, premature loss of baby teeth, a poor breathing airway caused by enlarged adenoids or tonsils can all contribute to poor tooth positioning. And then there are the hereditary factors. Extra teeth, large teeth, missing teeth, wide spacing, small jaws – all can be causes of crowded teeth.

Q: Why should I be concerned about my child’s bite?
A: A bad bite can be detrimental to the future of your child’s mouth. Restorations, crowns or bridges are often impossible for a dentist to perform without prior repositioning of the teeth by an orthodontist. Properly aligned and supported teeth are healthy &, easier to clean, and therefore more likely to last throughout a patient’s lifetime.

Q: What part does heredity play?
A: Heredity is A complicated combination of factors. Both parents may have perfectly aligned teeth. And the first child’s teeth may erupt unevenly. Then comes the second child and it is as if hereditary factors are working against each other. The child’s teeth appear normal, but their alignment is going to cause problems in the future. So, assume neither the best nor the worst. Have your orthodontist evaluate your child’s bite and proceed from there.

Q: How do orthodontists straighten teeth?
A: Tooth movement is actually a normal response to light pressure. Pressure is applied by using a variety of orthodontic hardware (appliances), the most common being a brace or bracket attached to the teeth and connected by an archwire. Periodic changing of these archwires puts pressure on the teeth. At different stages of treatment your child may wear elastics, a positioner or a retainer. We do not use headgear because we have found better ways to do the same things that do not require so much cooperation from the patient.

Q: Will it hurt?
A: There may be some discomfort for the first 2-3 days when the teeth are starting to move. With the type of arch wires that we use. there should not be discomfort after that.

Q: What about extra-curricular activities?
A: We heartily encourage your child to pursue extra-curricular interests. Athletics can be a regular part of this routine. Certain musical instruments can actually be helpful during treatment. Speech may at first be somewhat affected, but only for a day or two. So we tell our patients that orthodontics is a normal part of this phase in their lives and that treatment should not preclude any activities they usually pursue within their school’s programs.

Q: Will I look funny?
A: Not necessarily. Minor corrections can be accomplished with braces completely concealed within the mouth. More involved treatment may require braces on the teeth to successfully move them to the desired positions. Braces are the handles used to move your teeth in a positive manner. We use small (mini) brackets bonded to the outer surfaces of the teeth. Plastic braces may be used for minor corrections. Ceramic brackets, which are similar in color to teeth, are less obvious to the casual observer and offer the versatility of regular stainless steel braces. The latest ones are translucent enough to actually allow the natural shading of the teeth to show through. In all cases, regardless of the braces used on your teeth, the activating part of your braces is the wire that goes from tooth to tooth. It is not uncommon to observe half of the children in a school class having some sort of braces. Many kids consider braces “neat” and the “in” thing.

Q: How long will treatment take?
A: Orthodontic correction can vary from the comparatively simple closing of front spaces in a few months, to the realignment of unsightly and disfiguring teeth. In the young child or the adolescent, treatment is as much a critical matter of timing and guidance as anything else. The normal treatment time varies from eighteen months to two years depending on the complexity of the problem.

Q: How often will I need office visits?
A: Appointments average about once a month. In the initial stage, the appointments are more frequent. Once the appliances (braces) are in place, appointments are scheduled at longer intervals. For children, every effort will be made to schedule appointments after school hours or on Saturdays. Occasionally, your child may have to come during school hours. School authorities are usually understanding.

Q: How much will it cost?
A: Do not assume your treatment will cost the same as someone else’s. Because no two problems are the same, treatment plans and accompanying costs will vary among patients. Those factors affecting the simplicity or complexity of your problem will be explained in detail by us. We offer very reasonable payment plans (no interest), conveniently spread over the estimated treatment period. We have 3-18 month loans at 0% interest (no interest) available.

Q: Will my dental insurance pay for it?
A: Today many dental policies include orthodontic benefits. For questions concerning eligibility a pre-determination of available benefits can be requested from your insurance company representative. The percentage of reimbursement varies from plan to plan.

Q: Will the improvement be permanent?
A:The combined experience of orthodontists across the country points to a 95% permanent improvement rate. Teeth, like all parts of the body are constantly changing and adapting. Where growth guidance is accomplished, the results are usually permanent. Jaw relationships affecting facial contours can be expected to remain for life. However, there are certain types of facial patterns that continue to change even past adolescence. (Should this be the case with your child, of course it will be discussed thoroughly so you are made aware of any detrimental growth indications.) Conscientious retainer wear following treatment will minimize minor movement or relapse.
===========

If you’ve decided it’s time for braces or Invisalign, your next step is choosing where you will go for treatment. Many general dentists are offering orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign. They offer “one-stop shopping” for their existing dental patients. Makes everything easier and more convenient, right? Consider this…orthodontists not only complete the four years of dental school, but 2-3 more years to specialize in orthodontics. They have made the choice to do orthodontics and ONLY orthodontics. An orthodontist doesn’t do just a few cases here and there, every minute of their practice is devoted to resolving orthodontic issues. Whether you choose braces, bite appliances, or Invisalign, you are best left in the hands of an expert. Think of it like this, if you had to have heart surgery and your general practitioner said he could do it, would you let him/her do it or go to a heart specialist? Your orthodontist has years of experience looking at numerous kinds of cases and patients and will see best how to treat them. Dr. Stephen L. Carter at Carter Orthodontics has practiced for over thirty years…make him your orthodontic specialist!

What is an impacted tooth? It’s a tooth that is “stuck” in the gums and will not erupt on its own. The most likely teeth to be impacted are the “wisdom” teeth, but other teeth can be impacted, as well. In instances where the wisdom teeth are impacted, many times they can be left alone if not causing any discomfort or infection. When a tooth other than a wisdom tooth is impacted however, it is usually necessary to either extract it or “expose” the tooth and bring it slowly into its proper position. Leaving these other teeth alone can likely cause infection, contribute to poor dental hygiene, or compromise supporting bone structure.

In the past, many dentists would simply extract the tooth. This would result in a gap where the tooth would have been, becoming a trap for food and plaque, not to mention create bone loss. A dental implant or bridge would be necessary to optimize the functionality of the bite and oral health. If the tooth and it’s root are healthy, an oral surgeon can uncover the tooth by creating a flap in the gum tissue and bond a bracket and chain or special spring to the surface of the unerupted tooth. The chain or spring then leads out through the gum tissue. Your orthodontist can then use the chain to gently pull the impacted tooth through the gum tissue and into its proper position. This option helps maintain all the patient’s teeth and bone! As the tooth comes through the gum tissue, orthodontic brackets help guide the tooth into the ideal position in the arch along with the other teeth.

So…you just got back from your first orthodontic exam…what were they saying?? Overbite? Underbite? Deep bite? Huh? Let’s help clear that up!

Ideally, a perfect bite where all the teeth fit together like a neat puzzle would be what is considered a Class I bite or occlusion. The upper first molars (also called 6yr molars and are the molars furthest forward) should sit slightly outside of the lower first molars with the first half of the top tooth cradled in the middle of the lower one. They fit together a lot like legos! When the teeth vary from this position, orthodontics can help!

Class II occlusion means that those upper first molars fit in front of those lower first molars, causing what is called overjet. This can result in a “buck-toothed” appearance or having a “weak” chin. People might say this is an “overbite”, but an “overbite” or “deep bite” is when the top front teeth hang way over the bottom teeth. They should overlap slightly, but when they cover too much of the bottom front teeth, it can throw the jaw off and cause problems.

A Class III bite is when the upper first molars fit together with the lower second molars—too far back. This brings the lower jaw to sit in front of the the upper teeth, creating an “underbite”. This is a particularly difficult bite to battle because the top teeth trap the lower teeth and can’t allow the jaw to move back where it belongs.

Any variance from that Class I ideal bite can cause uneven wearing on the teeth, TMJ disorder, inability to chew properly on both sides of the mouth, gum disease, and impaired speech. Orthodontics is more than just straight teeth!

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

As we leave adolescence far, far behind, thoughts of orthodontic treatment are left far behind, too. As adults, we may remember going through braces as a teen or had parents who may not have been able to afford orthodontic treatment. Because that’s who wears braces, right? Teens! Not anymore! People of ALL ages are seeking orthodontic treatment more today than ever before. In fact, adults now make up more than 25% of those in orthodontic treatment!

Why should adults get treatment? Though adult bone growth is complete, straightening the teeth and aligning the jaws is still possible. Good orthodontic treatment has many benefits to an adult’s overall health. Crooked teeth are harder to clean and can cause deterioration of tooth enamel and gums. Poor gum health has been shown to have a direct link to heart disease. Also, digestion can be adversely affected by inadequate chewing due to poor tooth and jaw alignment.

TMJ and bruxism (grinding of teeth) are also growing problems with adults. Poor alignment of teeth and jaws are usually a primary cause of these types of painful issues. Adults often say orthodontic treatment gave them a “brace lift” because bone structure can be affected during the expansion of the arches and alignment of the jaws. Treatment can result in fuller lips, a more contoured appearance, and possibly the advancement of the lower jaw, creating a stronger jawline and eliminating the “double chin”.

Still not sold? Don’t like the fact braces are too noticeable? Limit your diet? Too painful to lips and cheeks? Invisalign is a great option for many adults. Invisalign is a series of clear aligners and small tooth-colored attachments on the teeth to gradually straighten your teeth and jaws. Since there are no brackets to knock off with sticky, hard food, Invisalign allows patients to eat whatever they want!

Impatient? Orthodontic treatment takes too long? Acceledent is a revolutionary new product used in conjunction with either braces or Invisalign for 20 minutes a day. It can cut your treatment time by 50%! Acceledent can be a fantastic option for adults wanting to finish treatment in time for big events like a wedding or class reunion.

There are soooooo many options and benefits today to getting orthodontic treatment…no more excuses!

One of the greatest things about those “sweet” holidays-Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Halloween-is to have a guilt-free excuse to eat lots and lots of candy! Unless, of course, you have some kind of expansion appliance or braces in your mouth! Booooooo! Lots of the sticky, sweet stuff winds up wrapped around that metal or (gasp!) breaks something! Not to mention, all that sugar LOVES to sit and lounge on your precious enamel and encourages cavities. Double boooooo!!!!! Hold on, hold on…just because you’ve decided that now’s the time to straighten your teeth and fix your bite doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy those beloved sugary treats once in a while. You just have to be more careful about which ones you put in your mouth and don’t forget to BRUSH afterwards! So let’s break it down…

Candy you CAN have :

Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate
melt-in-your mouth treats like Pop-Rocks
Suckers (as long as you LICK them and NOT CRUNCH them)
Fun Dip & Pixi Stix
Did I say CHOCOLATE???
Candy you need to AVOID :

Hard, chewy kind like Skittles, Starburst, Tootsie Rolls
Anything with nuts
Anything with caramel, marshmallows, or toffee
Gum
Gummy bears, Sour gummies, or Laffy Taffy
Did I miss some candy? Of course, but just use your noodle and if it seems iffy, avoid it! So just remember, as long as you continue to brush and floss like a champ after you eat anything, you keep seeing your general dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings, and you use good sense about what you eat, you CAN enjoy those fun candy holidays!

=================
Invisalign
Invisalign is a new technology which we offer on selected cases. The Invisalign technology uses a series of clear vacuum molded “aligners” which gradually shift your teeth into the correct positions. Invisalign is usually reserved for our adult or mature teenage patients, While not for everyone, Invisalign may fit your needs.

Herbst Appliance
The Herbst appliance is used to correct the front to back relationship of the upper and lower jaws, often referred to as Class II problems. The rod and tube that is affectionately called “the shock absorber” actually connects the upper and lower jaws. This really does not interfere with opening and closing your mouth or with eating. You might find side to side movement is somewhat restricted.

Things You Will Need To Get Used To
1. The bottom screws will irritate the lip. Your lip will toughen up like a callous, but it will take a few days for it to happen. You can put Orabase on the inside of the lip and cheek where it is sore. You can also place orthodontic wax over the screws to make it smoother. On rare occasions, it may be necessary for us to give you cotton rolls. These cotton rolls are placed inside your cheek to keep your lip and cheek away from the screw while you are sleeping.
2. When the lower jaw is brought forward, the back teeth do not come together like they did prior to the placement of the appliance, so be patient. Those teeth will come together so that you can chew normally in about a week.

3. Most of the time, there is not tenderness in the teeth when the Herbst appliance is placed. Every once in a while, a patient may feel some tenderness which is normally short lived. It will disappear in a few days.

Possible But Not Probable Problems
1. If you open very wide, sometimes the rods and tubes can pop apart. If they do, just open wide and put the rods and tubes back together. If you cannot get them together, you can leave them apart and call for an appointment to put them back together again. If, when the rods and tubes are apart, you are not in pain, they can wait to be put back together until the next day or over the weekend because the muscles will hold the jaw in position. If they are causing pain, call the office and we will put them back together as soon as possible. If you are having a problem with the rods and tubes disengaging quite often, then please call the office and we will make the rods and tubes longer so they will not come apart as easily. We don’t like to do that unless it is necessary because we don’t want to move your jaw too far or too fast because it grows better if we move it gradually.

2. Occasionally, a screw may come loose. If this happens, you will have a rod or tube dangling in your mouth. If this is causing pain, then call our office and we will replace the rod and tube as soon as possible. If it is not causing pain, it can wait until the next day or over the weekend.

3. Infrequently, the Herbst can come loose or break; there is nothing indestructible we can put in your mouth. If you have a problem with something breaking or becoming loose, please contact our office. If it is not causing you pain and you can function, you can wait until the next day or over the weekend. However, if you cannot function normally or there is pain, please contact the office and we will correct the problem as quickly as possible.

The Herbst appliance is one of our most frequently used appliances. We feel it is one of the best ways to treat Class II bite problems. It is fully contained within your mouth and does not show. It is glued in the mouth, so it is always working. This is absolutely critical for a quick and complete resolution of orthodontic problems. We generally leave the Herbst in for one year.

Pendex Appliances
The pendex appliance is a combination upper jaw expander and space gainer. It is glued onto the teeth and usually left in place for a period of 4 to 8 months.

Upper Expander
The upper expander is used to make your upper jaw wider.
1. You will have more saliva in your mouth for a few days until your brain gets used to the
idea that the expander is not something to eat. Once this happens, you will find that excess saliva is not a problem.

2. EATING: In the beginning, you may have a difficult time chewing certain foods.
However, within a few days, you will find you are able to eat normally. Start out with smaller bites and more easily chewed foods. While you are eating, food may get stuck in the appliance. Take a drink of water and swish it around. This should flush out any food. A small water syringe is also helpful for dislodging food particles. We will be glad to give you one of these free of charge.

3. BRUSHING YOUR TEETH: Brush your expander just like your own teeth. Take
special care to brush along the gum line so that these tissues do not become inflamed. Some inflammation of the gum tissue is common. This will quickly go away after the expander is removed. Regular use of an over the counter fluoride is encouraged.

4. ROUGH SPOTS: We try to make sure everything is smooth before you leave the office. However, your tongue and lips can find areas that we cannot. If you have a rough spot, call our office and we will schedule an appointment to take care of it.

5. LOOSE APPLIANCE: If this happens, stop turning the appliance and call our office. If you can get the appliance out of your mouth yourself, go ahead and do so, but call us as soon as possible.

6. SPACES: You may initially get a large space between your front teeth. Do not be
concerned, as this is a normal and expected result of the expansion. The majority of this space will often close on its own once the expansion is stopped.

7. SPEAKING: While speech may be affected initially, you will find you quickly adapt to
the expander. Within a few days, speech will return to normal.

8. DISCOMFORT: During expansion, you may feel pressure in your teeth and along the
side of your nose and sinus area. If the pressure is excessive, you can reduce the turns to once a day. Many times, taking an Advil _ hour before the appliance is activated is helpful in relieving the pressure. Most patients find the pressure decreases with increasing expansion.

9. The normal length of wear for your expander will be 4 to 5 months. The actual
expansion will occur only during the first 2 to 3 weeks.

10. Please remember that if you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to call
the office. We are here to help you in whatever way we can.

Removable Appliances
Removable appliances, unlike conventional braces, are used to retain teeth in their corrected positions and in some cases, to influence growth of the jaws in order to affect changes in facial structure. In addition, they are often used before and in conjunction with fixed appliances.

Removable appliances are not utilized to treat all orthodontic problems. It takes skill, and experience to recognize conditions that will respond favorably to removable appliances. Timing of such therapy also is very important.

Because removable appliances can easily be taken out by the patient, there may be a tendency not to wear them as we have prescribed. This means your teeth, jaws and muscles may move back toward their original positions.

Removable appliances require care. Although you may notice an effect on eating and speaking along with an increase in the flow of saliva, you will eventually adjust to the appliance.

Positioners
The positioner is a custom made mouthpiece which is utilized to make final and minor adjustments to the bite. This appliance is made from impressions of your teeth which are sent off to a special laboratory. When Dr. McClimans feels you are ready, the braces will be removed and the positioner placed. You will wear a positioner as your initial retention appliance. In six weeks, after final records are taken, you will receive upper and lower retainers to wear long term.

Initially, the positioner should be worn four hours per day and slept in at night. After one week, you will be checked, and if all is well, the wearing time will be reduced to two hours per day along with regular nighttime wear. During the day, the positioner should be worn for a minimum of 20 minutes at a time, followed by a period of rest. While the positioner is in place, exercise by clenching, holding, and relaxing the teeth. If the positioner falls out at night, get in more wearing time during the day. Some people find it helpful to suggest to themselves before going to sleep that they will keep the positioner in all night.

When the positioner is removed in the morning, rinse with water to remove saliva and store in the box provided. From time to time, the positioner should be brushed with a toothbrush and toothpaste to assure good oral hygiene. If you experience gum irritation, please contact our office so that you can be seen and the positioner adjusted. These six weeks of positioner wear are critical to a stable orthodontic result. Teeth can move quickly without adequate retention force; please follow instructions as prescribed.

Retainers are utilized, generally after the positioner. They are utilized to hold your teeth in their new positions until your bone, gums, and muscles adapt to the new teeth positions. You must wear your retainer as instructed, otherwise your teeth may move toward their original positions and the benefit of wearing your braces will be lost.

Dr.McClimans will determine how long you need to wear your retainer. Time varies with each patient. Some people may need retainers for an extended period of time in order to eliminate shifting of the teeth. In some cases, permanent retention may be necessary.

The retention period is an important part of your overall treatment and should not be neglected!

Remember, wear them in your mouth, not in your pocket. Retainers work when you follow our instructions.

Clean your retainers! After meals, clean all parts of the retainer with a brush, dishwashing soap and water. Use of dish soap will prevent scratching of the polished plastic, which can occur with the use of toothpaste.

Handle your retainers with care. Retainers are easy to lose. If you take your retainers out, always place them in your retainer case for safety. Click here for more information on caring for your retainers.
==========

=================

===============
What are Six Month Smiles?
Choosing a brace can sometimes be an overwhelming or confusing process, which is why your dentists opinion should obviously play a big part in your decision; however, it could help to do some research of your own beforehand, so that you know exactly what your options are before you decide what kind of orthodontic work you would like to get. Let’s take a look at Six Month Smiles to see if this sort of brace would be suitable for you;

What are Six Month Smiles?
This is a type of orthodontic system that is often referred to as ‘clear braces’ because of the components that are used to create the appliance; Six Month Smiles are made from brackets and wires, much like traditional fixed braces, but instead of using metal brackets, the appliance is made up of transparent resin brackets that allow the enamel shade to show through from the other side. Clear brackets might not make the brace as invisible as removable aligners might be but this is as close as you are going to get with a fixed appliance. This kind of brace is designed to be much more discreet than traditional ‘train tracks’ and this makes Six Month Smiles a great alternative for people who don’t want to wear a noticeable appliance. Some people are put off orthodontic treatment because the braces will be obvious when their teeth are showing; a clear fixed brace can open up a world of dentistry to people who have not previously considered it an option. Although they are not 100% invisible, they are much more discreet than normal train tracks and blend in better with the surface of the tooth.

Six Month Smiles are relatively new to the orthodontic market so they might not be as widely available but as more and more people request them it is likely that they will be on offer at a greater number of clinics, which means that you should not have too much trouble finding a provider who can offer you this kind of brace system. If you would like to benefit from Six Month Smiles specifically, you should first contact prospective clinics either by phone or online to see what sort of braces they can provide.

How are the braces fitted?
Because they are very similar to normal fixed braces, Six Month Smiles are fitted in much the same way as traditional train-tracks, each bracket is fixed to a misaligned tooth and then joined together with a wire that is threaded through each one; the wire is secured to the brace with elastic bands that are blended to the tooth enamel so that the appliance is more discreet than metal braces. This is not a very long process but it will obviously take slightly longer if the teeth are more crooked and more brackets have to be applied. As soon as the wire is fixed in place, the brace will start to put pressure onto the teeth to move them into alignment; this is inevitable with any sort of brace and the pain should subside after a couple of days, as the periodontal fibres get used to the change in pressure.

How long does treatment take?
The treatment time with fixed braces can vary greatly from patient to patient; it could be a few months or it may even be several years, depending on the initial position of the teeth. With Six Month Smiles, as the name suggests, the aim is to complete the treatment within a period of six months, although this may not be possible with every patient and you should be aware that it can take longer if your teeth are very crooked.

It is also worth mentioning that it takes more time to move adult teeth than it usually does to shift adolescent teeth; this is because younger teeth are not as firm in the socket so they can move more easily. This is obviously not a concrete rule for every patient but it is something to remember if you are not a teenager; this should not put you off getting orthodontic treatment but you should remember that it can take a little bit longer with adult teeth. For this reason, most dentists will try to arrange orthodontic treatment when their patients are still in their teenage years; although these days there is a larger number of older people who want to get braces and they can still benefit greatly from all kinds of orthodontic systems.

Will Six Month Smiles be suitable for me?
If you would like to get braces but the thought of wearing a noticeable appliance for the duration of your treatment puts you off, you might be interested in a clear fixed appliance as an alternative. If your teeth are too badly crooked for removable aligners then it is likely that a fixed brace will be your only option, which means that it’s probable that a Six Month Smiles appliance would be suitable for you rather than a metal wire and bracket design. In order to check that your teeth are in good condition and that braces are not going to damage them further, the dentist will carry out a series of x-rays to find out what sort of state the roots are in beneath the tissue. If you have had orthodontic treatment before it is possible that the roots will have retracted and this may make it unsafe to apply more braces as it could damage the teeth irreparably. Your dentist needs to be sure that another course of treatment will not do more harm than good; a small amount of root retraction should not prevent you from getting braces but if there has been noticeable shortening the dentist will have to estimate the risk to dental health.

If you are interested in this sort of brace and you would like to find out whether it would be available to you, contact the Pearl Dental Clinic; this is a surgery in the Kingston area of London that can provide all types of orthodontic appliance to improve your teeth and make them healthier too. Get in touch with the reception team now to find out more about the systems that are on offer.
================

====================
Teeth contouring can help them appear less crowded, free of cracks and fractures, and decrease overlaps or pitting and groves in the enamel. The procedure is painless and creates a beautiful smile. Before deciding to contour one’s teeth, it should be discussed with a cosmetic dentist and should not be used in cases with severe misshapen or damaged teeth. Most patients see a huge difference after having the procedure done. It’s a convenient procedure with many patients only needing one treatment; others may need to come back for a second and third treatment.

Contouring is also known as tooth reshaping and is one of the few immediate treatments available in cosmetic dentistry. It only takes one session for results, in most cases. Under certain circumstances it can be used as an alternative to braces. The changes are subtle, yet effective. A few millimeters of reduction and tooth-colored laminate are involved in the process. Another common use for the procedure is tooth lengthening, shaping or positioning.

Before the dentist begins the procedure, he will determine if the defects are minor enough to be corrected with the contouring. Then he will x-ray the teeth to make sure they are healthy enough to withstand the small amount of enamel that is removed. The tooth may become weak if too much of the enamel is removed. The dentist will mark each tooth that is to be reshaped with a pencil. Sometimes the dentist may take a “before” picture to use as a reference. The pencil marks are used as a guide for sculpting with a sanding drill or laser. Rough strips are moved back and forth to shape the sides of the tooth, and then it is smoothed out and polished. It usually takes anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes for each tooth. An “after” photograph may be taken to compare and display the difference to the patient. Anesthetic is not usually required as the amount of enamel removed is not enough to cause pain or discomfort. There may be some sensitivity to hot or cold substances for a few days afterward but the slight irritation is temporary.

The result that the patient desires and dentist strives for is to change the shape or size of the teeth so that those which are not proportioned or slightly damaged can be brought into alignment with the others. Generally, this is considered a cosmetic procedure and usually involves the upper central, lateral and canine teeth. Sometimes it is performed after the removal of braces to fix any minor problems that were left unresolved by the braces. Contouring can also be used in conjunction with veneers and bonding.

One of the benefits besides a nicer looking smile is that the teeth become easier to clean after the overlaps and repairs have been made. This will ultimately reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. It is a safe procedure with little to no risk to the patient. In some cases, the procedure may be covered by dental insurance in the case that the chipping or damage is the result of an accident. For those who are interested in contouring for purely cosmetic reasons, they can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $350 per tooth.
===================

=======================

=========================
Dental bridges are bridges that are cemented to your teeth on either side of a gap. It is a temporary bridge made by a dental technician before a permanent bridge is constructed. Pontiacs, false teeth, are fused between two crowns, essentially filling the area of the missing tooth. This is called a fixed bridge.

The procedure is used to replace missing teeth in your mouth and cannot be taken out. If you wish to be able to remove them you would be better off with removable dentures. As there are areas in your mouth that are under less stress than other teeth (front teeth), a cantilever bridge is used. If the bridges are to last for many years the overall health of your mouth must be good. Use super floss or interdentally brushes to maintain strong dental bridges for years. In instances where there are wide gaps on one side of a tooth, Cantilever bridges are used. Bridges can lower your chances of gum disease, help correct over-bite, improve and improve speech. You must be serious about your oral hygiene in order for the bridges to maintain longer than a few years.

A fixed bridge is when two crowns hold a false tooth in place, attached to your actual teeth. The procedure used to create this bridge is to replace missing teeth, as well. Again, fixed bridges can’t be taken out of your mouth. In order to have a bridge, teeth must be free from infection and decay. Bridges are made from metal sub-frames with white-colored porcelain, the same color of your teeth. These bridges are applied with cement to healthy teeth. Conventional bridges require having a part of the healthy tooth shaved adjacent to the missing tooth. A three-unit bridge is placed on the shaped teeth to support the fake tooth. The bridge is used to restore the natural chewing function and appearance. It will restore your smile and proper chewing ability, maintain face shape, distribute bite properly, and prevent teeth from moving.

Your gums should be in good health before considering this procedure. Dental bridges may be placed if the gums are not optimal health gum disease treatment. A Maryland and Dental bridge is the type of bridge made up of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework. The bonded nature of the Maryland dental bridge is lower than other types of bridges but the most simple to apply.

It is important that you are able to smile and give people a strong first-impression. Those who smile less and are embarrassed about their smile tend to be less likely to make solid first impressions. Dental bridge procedures help create the specific smile design for each individual person, designed by you and your own dentist. It can fill missing teeth, bridge gaps, fuse crowns, keep your teeth healthier and whiter, and improve your speaking ability. With two procedures available depending on your teeth’s condition, you are closer than ever to the perfect smile. Having dental bridges can also lower your chance of gum disease if maintained properly. These procedures are only for those who are serious about maintaining oral hygiene.
==================

The links listed above are designed to take you directly to the topic of interest. Links can be found below the topics that will bring you back to the top of this page.
What To Expect

The first appointment is the “initial examination”. This appointment allows Dr. Upton and the staff the opportunity to meet you or your child and to obtain basic information regarding any current or potential orthodontic problems. A medical and dental history are obtained as well as a thorough clinical evaluation and documentation of any orthodontic problems. A panoramic x-ray (screening x-ray) may be taken, if you do not have or bring one, to evaluate the development of the teeth, presence or absence of any teeth, and the integrity of the supporting dental structures. After Dr. Upton’s examination, general questions regarding the nature of the orthodontic problems (if any), type of treatment required, estimated time of treatment, and when treatment should be initiated, will be answered. If treatment is recommended after the initial examination, diagnostic records will be required so that Dr. Upton can further evaluate the problems and propose a recommended plan of treatment. If treatment is not indicated at the time of the initial examination, Dr. Upton will suggest a recall regimen to monitor the child’s growth and dental development.

Once the initial examination has been completed, the staff can address any financial concerns and discuss the payment options available through our office. We will be glad to explore any orthodontic insurance benefits you or your child may have.

Note: If orthodontic treatment is indicated, it is very important that you or your child has seen your family dentist for a checkup within the past six months. If any cavities are to be filled, these should be completed prior to initiation of the orthodontic treatment.

Appointment Time: Approximately 30-45 minutes.

What To Bring (If you have them)

A recent (within the last 6 months) panorex or full-mouth series of x-rays taken by your dentist.
Any orthodontic diagnostic records that may have previously been taken.
Any orthodontic insurance information (cards, booklets, etc.) so that we can determine your benefits.
The completed patient information and medical history form that was mailed to you after you scheduled the initial evaluation appointment.
Any referral information or letters that may have been given to you by your dentist or physician.
Top of Page

What To Expect (TMJ or TMD Exam)

The initial examination appointment is to determine the basic nature of your “TMD” problems and discuss the possible treatment modalities available to address these problems. A thorough evaluation of your medical and dental history as well as the effectiveness of any previous “TMD” treatment that has been rendered, will be investigated. A comprehensive clinical evaluation will be performed to assess and document areas that can contribute to jaw related pain and dysfunction. A panorex (screening x-ray) will be taken, if you do not have a recent one, to evaluate any abnormalities in the jaw joints, teeth, and the supporting structures of the teeth. After the initial evaluation, further diagnostic information may be necessary to establish a proper diagnosis and plan of treatment.

Once the examination is complete, a financial estimate of any necessary treatment will be discussed by a staff member before treatment is initiated. If you have dental or medical insurance, we will be happy to determine if you have any benefits covering “TMD” treatment.

Appointment Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

What To Bring (If you have them)

A recent (within the last 6 months) panorex or full-mouth series of x-rays taken by your dentist.
Any records that may have previously been taken to evaluate your “TMD” problems.
Any dental or medical insurance information (cards, booklets, etc.) so that we can determine your benefits.
The completed patient information and medical history form that was mailed to you after you scheduled the initial evaluation appointment.
Any referral information or letters that may have been given to you by your dentist or physician.
Top of Page

===============

==================
Braces Color Chooser

Braces Color Chooser

Digital colors ar mixtures of Red, Green, and Blue, with White and Black to lighten or darken hues.

Color choices are based on many factors. Will many people prefer your color, or color scheme? Greens, unfortunately, might be associated with sickness, especially mixed with too much red. Therefore, color choice should fit with associative subjects:

How light or dark should my color be? At too dark, some monitors won’t pick up the color well. At too light, readers may burn out their eyes with bright background color. Choose the brightness/darkness based on the contrast between light colours against dark ones.

Hexadecimal

(Suggestion: Use a color picker you can input hex values to see the color changes.)

For tinting colors with white or black, make the numbers associated with red, green, and blue, higher for lighter colors, and lower for darker colors. Using hexadecimal (six) numbers to represent the digital colors:

The color aa0000 paints medium red. Lighten red (closer to white), by incrementing 3 steps, from a to d. The last four numbers remain the same (dd0000 – lighter red, without green or blue changing). Red is now brighter, and much more noticeable.

Darker

Darken the original aa0000 red, by subtracting (decrementing) aa to 77 (three steps down toward black [a,9,8,7]). Now, 770000 is still red, but darker, and less noticeable.

Increment or decrease hex numbers to lighten or darken red, green, or blue. Either move closer to white(ffffff), or move closer to black(000000). Remember all of the numbers mix with each other.

Saturation (how much hue)

Saturation is how close a color is to gray. Toward gray is desaturation. Toward more color chromaticity is saturation (away from gray). Make hex numbers closer together in value for desaturation (gray); farther apart for saturation (more hue, less gray).

Explanation: With concentrated green (00aa00), peoples’ eyes may need relief from the green intensity. Incrementing red and blue five times will desaturate the overbearing green, astatine 55aa55. Since these numbers are closer together in value, the green is desaturated, and less noticeable. (Remember hex is 0123456789abcdef.)

Reverse this process to saturate the green we created. Decrement our hex green (55aa55) to 33aa33. Notice how the green hex remains the same (aa). Red and blue numbers move farther away from green’s. This effect makes more green hue, and less gray.

Desaturation (how much gray)

Completely gray is hex numbers astatine the same value (aaaaaa). Hex gray has all the same numbers. Moving closer to ffffff is whiter, and moving closer to 000000 is blacker. Grey is really desaturation. White is just lightest, and black is just darkest.

Hex Adjustment for Saturation

Compare the desaturated (closer to gray) green, with the original green. Notice desaturating a color makes it appear lighter. Use the same technique to darken, as above, for the desaturated green (so desaturation won’t lighten):

Lower (decrement) every number, in this case 55aa55. Decrement each by one, to get the darker green color 449944. This darkens more than we want. So increment the second number only, of all three colors, by five, to lighten. Red would be 49, green 9e, and blue 49.

Original = 449944
Lightened = 499e49

The second number of each color increments a littler amount than the first number. First numbers multiply by 16, and second numbers increment by one.

Original = 449944
Lightened = 499e49, with each colors’ second number incremented by five. Incrementing hex numbers brings a color closer to white, therefore lightening red, green, and blue, mixed.

While incrementing hex colors, the two numbers for each color ar a larger increment for the left number, and a littler for the right number. A blue color of 5555ee, is much unlike than a blue color of 55557e. Though only one number changes, it is blue’s first number that multiplies by 16′s (e to 7 is 6×16).

5555ee = blue
55557e = blue’s first number lowered

However, if blue’s last number changes from 5555ee to 5555e7, almost the same blue is visible. Blue’s second number multiplies by one (in this case, 6×1 values).

Shadows make elements pop out like 3-D (dimensional), instead of normally flat, or 2-D. We’re used to objects having a shadow. Shadows have a darker value than their objects. These two adjacent values contrast each other.

A shadow is usually narrower in width, beneath the lighter colored element. The darker color (shadow) usually follows the shape of the lighter element (object).

Shading is the darker color above (on top) the lighter element. Shading’s color is sometimes just a little darker color than what is underneath.

Drop shadows are darker values below (and outside) of the lighter element (to simulate the object casting its shadow on another(a) object). Drop shadows follow the shape of the object that casts the shadow.

A dark shadow beneath a lighter element, pushes away the element. This is because of the greater contrast. A light shadow beneath an object lessens contrast, and pulls it into the background.

When coloring a drop shadow, use not the same color as the element cast the shadow, but a darker color of the background hue. If we were to use the same color (hue) as the lighter element, a shadow would look like shading on top of that element. Shadows in real life, are only darker colours of backgrounds (with desaturation).

Shade

For shading on top of an element, use a darker color (hue) of that element. Hexadecimal numbers will decrease for that color. An aqua element, 55cccc, can have its side shaded with 48c5c5. The original aqua decrements by 7, for red, green, and blue.

Under the original aqua (55cccc) object, cast a drop shadow onto a white background. Darken the white (ffffff), acquiring closer to gray (ededed). White decrements (desaturates) by changing red, green, and blue to the same lower number. Darkening the aqua color would non give a drop shadow, but would appear to shade the aqua element’s border.

Highlight

Lighten an element’s color to show light hit the highest part. Raise every number (red, green, blue) of the aqua 55cccc to 66dddd. Give the the lighter hue the raised part’s shape. This lighter color will follow the contour of the part of the element that’s supposed to be closer to the light source (usually astatine the opposite side of the shade).

Contrast

With digital coloring, it’s really all about noticeablity. Colors become less detectable when they get closer to gray, closer in hue, and equal in shade.

Contrast is essentially the difference betwixt colors’ brightness. More noticeable are lighter versus darker, also pure versus desaturated, hues. Even the most pure hues, if they’re next to each other, can cancel out each’s noticeablity, and fight for the viewers’ attention.

Another contrasting element is edges. A sharper (more defined) colored edge contrasts more with its background. A softer (less defined) edge blends better, and is less noticeable.

Digital web color does have many considerations. Thankfully, ample online help is available. Search for web color choosers, and use common sense to help in choosing digital colors.

====================
Pictures Tooth Crown

Pictures Tooth Crown

“How much does a tooth crown cost?” is a common question. Crowns ar also called caps and there usually comes a time in someone’s life when they ar needed. There are several varied types of caps to be found and sometimes it is hard to know what the cost of dental crown will turn out to be. Getting to know something about each kind of cap and its cost will ensure patients decide which type they want and also get ready for the dental bill. At the moment, four types or crowns are available. These ar full metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, full rosin or full porcelain. Here is some information to aid patients in their decision.

Full Metal Tooth Crown Cost

Full metal crowns ar normally made of jewellery grade gold which needs less tooth structure to be detached than other types of dental caps and this minimizes the wear on the other teeth. They have also the longest life before wearing down. They ar hence seen as the best crowns despite their conspicuous metallic color. As a result, a number of people still use them for teeth that are non seen easily. This crown will cost from $750 to $1400.

Porcelain-Fused-to Metal Dental Crown Cost

The advantage of a porcelain fused to metal crown is the color being capable to be matched with the other patient’s teeth. This is non seen as a blazing metal cap. The disfavor is that it starts to wear down the adjacent teeth unlike the metal caps described above. To add to that, the metal inside starts to show through and you get a dark line on helium tooth. They also tend to chip off or break a lot easier than metal but they ar still preferred owing to their natural look. They range from $700 to $1300.

Full Resin Tooth Crown Cost

This is normally the cheapest type. It is more likely to crack and chip than the rest and are also found to wear the other teeth down quicker than other kinds of dental caps. A good number of patients will end up with this choice due to the low cost which is about $600 to $1200. As a result patients who lack dental insurance choose for this as it fixes the job without draining their accounts.

Full Porcelain Tooth Crown Cost

This offers the greatest color match with the rest of the teeth among all the other types of caps. It is however not as strong as the porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns and it has been found to produce more deterioration on the neighboring teeth than the resin and metal caps. They ar the best for those who ar sensitive to metals and are the most expensive at $800 to $1750.

If you a going for a dental crown procedure and interested about the cost of dental crowns, take a little time to understand what the procedure includes and the dissimilar types and associated charges. That way, you will know that you are non paying too much and acquiring quality treatment. There ar extra factors drive variations in tooth crown cost, which we further discuss on the Dental Crown Cost site and in follow-up articles.

===============
Bad Overbite

==============
Pictures Wisdom Teeth

Pictures Wisdom Teeth

We’ve all heard of stories of people who have had their wisdom teeth removed. Many of these stories relay the horrors of having these molars and the inconveniences of operations. In reality though, a lot of people don’t really experience any pain or discomfort. In these cases, should extraction still be considered?

Many people only think of having their third molars taken out when they start experiencing pain or swelling. These symptoms can emerge because these molars can become impacted. This means, there may be little room left in the gums for them to occupy. They may therefore only partly or ne’er fully come out. Some become trapped in the gums and bone.

Dentists may have to remove wisdom teeth because impacted ones can lead to bacteria build up and infection. These in turn can lead to gum and bone damage and to vesicle formation. Once the job has progressed to a higher level, the process of extracting may take a more complicated turn. This is why some dentists recommend early extraction.

It’s easy to understand the logic behind taking early action. There may be no issues now but there is a possibility that problems will arise in the future. You should much rather want to prevent worst case scenarios rather than be put in the position to deal with them. While there are no problems yet, the remotion of wisdom teeth and your healing process will be easier and faster. A reputable oral health practitioner is the best authority to ask on the advisability and feasibleness of extraction.

There are some unique challenges to the dental process. A patient’s case may become more complicated if a tooth is misaligned. There is also a possibility that it could have fused or irregularly molded and positioned roots. Of course, one other daunting scenario is when the tooth is located below the bone. A dentist may then have to gradually extract by first making a flap on the gum and then removing a portion of the bone.

The possible complexities of having wisdom teeth distant should not be causes for severe anxiety. Many other individuals have perfectly uncomplicated circumstances and removal need not take a lot of time or effort. Under normal conditions, the procedure may simply involve the use of local anesthesia and then typical extraction. People who are particularly fearful of dental procedures may request for sedatives in which case, the dentist would have to first determine the advisability of providing this option. In any case, if you are overly nervous, discussing the possibility of sedative use thoroughly with your dentist is perfectly acceptable.

The healing process and progress after the procedure will not be the same for every patient. In general though, the simpler the origin process, the faster healing will be. At the very least, you will be given pain medication and you may be advised to use ice packs. Rigorous physical activities may have to be restricted for a few days.

It is not entirely pleasant to have to undergo the procedure to remove wisdom teeth. Remember though that the sooner you act, the less complicated your situation will be. Ask your dentist even before you experience any kind of discomfort if taking out your molars is the best step to take.

================

This update is long overdue, I am so sorry I have not posted sooner. My last appointment was at the end of June and by this appointment, I had completed wearing trays 1-26. Tray 26 was supposed to be my final tray; however, Dr. Fender had already warned me that I may need refinement trays to get my teeth to their ideal placement. I knew that I definitely had a few stubborn teeth that needed to move a little more. Dr. Goggans examined my teeth and said that he was very happy with my progress, but he did see some areas that need more correction. In order to get my refinement trays, we basically had to start from the beginning…impressions and all!

Michelle sanded off my attachments….yes I said sanded! She told me the sander may hurt a little because your teeth can be sensitive to the cool air and vibrations it gives off. Honestly, this part didn’t bother me at all. After she was done, I looked a little like I had been hit with a powder puff around my mouth. She was nice enough to let me rinse out my mouth and wipe my face before she continued. I must say that although I had become used to the feeling of the attachments on my teeth, I did not miss them when they were gone.

Next, she filed down the ridges a little on my front teeth. They will probably do this again a little when I am completely done with treatment. We then moved on to my absolute least favorite part, IMPRESSIONS!! I don’t know what exactly makes that part so bad, but I’m not a fan of the process. However, they are now using some new kind of “goop” to do the impressions, and I found that it really was not quite as bad as I remembered it being the first time.

So where am I now? The picture on the right gives you some idea of how much my teeth have moved! Now, I’m waiting for my refinement trays to come in, which could be up to six weeks. In the mean time, I am to wear tray 26 until my new aligners arrive. It is definitely different wearing the trays without the attachments, sometimes I feel like I have to hold them down for a minute before they are on my teeth really well. I cannot believe how fast the treatment process has gone by and how much my teeth have already moved. I am not sure how many trays will make up the refinement set, but I think that will fly by too and I can’t wait for that perfect smile.

=================

====================
Ortho 1.11-for soldiers

=====================

==============

==============

============

===============

—————–

===================

=================================

==============

===============
Orthodontic Retainers

================
Invisalign Invisible Braces

====================

Invisalign Retainer

===============
Invisible Braces

Invisible Braces

There ar several unlike types of braces. There are the traditional metal ones that cost from $5,000 to $7,000. Tooth colored ceramic braces will cost another(a) five hundred dollars or so. Another type of braces ar called “behind the teeth” braces. They cost two thousand to five thousand dollars. Invisible braces cost much less.

Fortunately, these ar a good alternative to the traditional types of braces. They ar invisible clear plastic trays that accomplish the same results as the other types of braces. What do inconspicuous braces cost? They cost will start astatine $3,500 up to $5,000.

Depending on the severity of the crooked teeth, invisible braces cost an additional five hundred dollars. Go over your dental insurance to see if the insurer will pay for the unseeable braces cost. Adults ar not normally covered for braces under their insurance plan. Your braces should be formed as small as possible.

All the traditional types of braces will be applied with dental glue. Also, sometimes you may need a metal band. There is a piece called an arch wire that goes from bracket to bracket. This wire applies the correct amount of pressure needed to straighten the teeth. You may also require “elastics” that will keep the brackets attached to the wire.

Metal braces take the shortest time period to straighten the teeth. Of course, the metal type will show more than the other types of braces. Ceramic braces ar much less apparent than metal braces, but they will take several months thirster to get the desired results. IBraces use small metal brackets.

They are put in on the tongue side of the mouth so they cannot be seen by others. IBraces and ceramic braces are non recommended for extreme cases. These braces will need to be in the mouth up to four months yearner than metal braces. Clear braces cost much less than other types of braces. Invisible braces ar more comfortable as well.

The teeth will straighten gradually with the clear plastic braces. Clear braces ar switched out for a different shape every two weeks. If you have a severe job with crooked teeth, you can use the invisible braces. However, you will need to follow up with metal braces. You can also have your braces customized. They come in every color you can imagine and you can buy gold plated braces as well. Braces ar also sold in custom shapes and designs. You can buy them in the shape of footballs, flowers, smiley faces and even hearts.

They also make braces in the shape of letters. These custom invisible braces cost up to four hundred dollars more. Don’t forget that unseeable braces cost much less than traditional metal braces. Invisible braces have become more and more popular since their debut in the 1990′s. They ar constantly improving the braces through laboratory testing and patient experience with the braces. Fortunately, there is a dissimilar option other than metal braces. When evaluating how much do braces cost make sure to not just focus on price. While the cost of braces is important, make sure you get the care you deserve.

=================
Root Canals

Root Canals

Until the last century, a decayed or infected tooth was pulled without any thought to saving it. If it wasn’t yanked out, an abscess formed. The pus pocket of poisons caused tremendous pain and could even damage the jawbone. When the abscess broke, the toxins were released into the bloodstream, causing illness. Root canal therapy basically consists of replacing a tooth’s dead nerve and diseased pulp. That means the dentist does not yank out the tooth, he just cleans out the inside of the root.

Once a tooth pushes through the gums and is fully grown, neither the nerve nor the pulp is vitally important to the tooth’s health. The only function of the nerve is to impart the awareness of hot or cold. When the diseased nerve cannot repair itself, it dies – no longer feeling any sensation. The pulp is soft tissue full of nerves and blood vessels. It fills the pulp chamber, which is below the tooth’s crown. It also fills the roots and root canals.

A tooth requiring root canal therapy has such extensive decay that the dentist must put a porcelain crown over the exposed tooth. Depending upon how many teeth are involved and where they are located, he may also discuss the need for a bridge or an implant.

To start the root canal therapy, the dentist will inject a numbing agent near the tooth. Theoretically, the nerve is dead so anesthesia should not be necessary, but most dentists don’t want to take a chance of a patient suddenly jumping in pain. A patient should be totally relaxed and free of pain because the delicate surgery requires minute precision.

It is critical that all the decay and infection is cleaned out of the canals of the root. The dentist drills a hole through the crown of the tooth to gain access into the pulp chamber. He then pulls out the pulp and dead nerve, and refills the chamber and canals with medication that will kill all the bacteria.

On your next visit, the doctor fills the tooth’s pulp chamber and root canals with a rubbery material, then permanently seals the tooth closed with antibacterial cement. Last but not least, he caps the tooth with a crown, usually made of porcelain. The crown is virtually undetectable from the teeth adjacent to it.

People tend to cringe when they are told they need a root canal because the procedure used to have the reputation of being painful. Modern dental technology and new anesthetics, however, mean today’s patients do not have to feel pain. If the tooth was infected before surgery, it may ache mildly for a couple of days. That discomfort will be relieved with over-the-counter painkillers such as aspirin or acetaminophen.

Many teeth that underwent root canal therapy can easily last a person’s lifetime, but the procedure is expensive. The costly investment is worth protecting with at-home oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.

If your dentist is bent on saving and repairing your tooth with root canal therapy, don’t be afraid. A root canal is not scary if you know what to expect (and if you know that it won’t involve a lot of pain). Express any concerns or questions you have with your dentist so he can reassure you.

==========================
Straight Teeth Without Braces

Straight Teeth Without Braces

With the abundance of information about orthodontic braces on the Internet, patients usually come into my office already having many ideas about braces. Nevertheless, what they have heard from friends or read online is not always accurate. Here are the top ten myths about braces and orthodontics.

1. My wisdom teeth are making my teeth crooked – You may think that wisdom teeth cause crowding. However, there is very little evidence to support the fact that wisdom teeth cause crowding. If this was true, then your teeth would never get crowded after your wisdom teeth were extracted. In fact, people who never developed wisdom teeth or who had their wisdom teeth removed may still see their teeth get crooked over time. Teeth just tend to drift forward over time regardless of whether or not you have wisdom teeth.

2. Braces have to hurt or feel tight to work- No pain no gain right? Well, not exactly. In the old days, only stiff wires were available. When tied to the dental braces, these stiff wires exerted heavy forces leading to more pain and discomfort for the patient. Now, with new technologies and flexible wires, there is significantly less discomfort associated with tooth movement. These days, you can have straight teeth with minimal discomfort. However, there are always some patients that complain about not having any pain because they think that without pain, their teeth are not moving. Remember, “It does not have to hurt to work!”

3. The tighter the better- A common comment I get from patients is, “Make it tighter, doc. I want to get my braces off faster!” You may think that tighter adjustments and heavier forces will move your teeth faster. While a certain level of force is necessary to move teeth, a force level that is too high may start to damage the bone and surrounding tissues. Orthodontics is a delicate balance of forces. Too much force may cause some teeth to move the wrong way and increase overall time you need braces.

4. Wires need to be changed every visit- Super-elastic wires of the present day can be bent into all different shapes and still spring back into their nice U-shaped form. If you have crooked teeth, the super-elastic wire can be connected to your crooked teeth and provide a steady light force to straighten them without needing to change the wire very often. With the limited wires of the old orthodontia days, if a wire was used that put too much pressure on a tooth, the bracket would either pop off the tooth or the wire would be permanently deformed and not move your teeth at all! That is why in the old days, orthodontic patients got many wires with incrementally higher stiffness, and these wires were changed more frequently.

5. Only braces can straighten my teeth- Not necessarily. With new technology, it is now possible to have straight teeth without ever having to wear braces! Invisalign clear aligners are the most popular way to straighten teeth without braces. However, before you get too excited, know that Invisalign does have its limitations. For example, Invisalign may not be the best orthodontic option for fixing some bite problems or severely crooked teeth. The best way to see if Invisalign can straighten your teeth is to find an Invisalign orthodontist and schedule a consultation.

6. Once I get my braces off, my teeth will stay straight forever- Getting your teeth straight and your bite right is just half the battle. Keeping your teeth straight after getting your braces off is the rest of the battle. Teeth are connected to the bone by elastic fibers. As the teeth are moved into their new straightened positions, some elastic fibers are stretched and others are compressed. After your braces are removed, these elastic fibers will tend to push and pull your teeth back towards their original position. That is why retainers are required when braces are removed to keep your teeth straight.

7. Any overbite is bad-I f I had a dollar for every time a new patient complained of having an overbite, only to be told that their overbite is normal, if could probably have bought a car by now. The point is that many patients think that having a mild overbite is a bad thing and this is wrong. People with zero overbite (whose teeth bite together in the front) actually start wearing down their front teeth over time. So a small overbite actually protects the front teeth from wearing down. Of course, a large overbite can be problematic so a small overbite of only two to three millimeters is ideal.

8. The date that I am supposed to get my braces off is set in stone- When patients are told before treatment that they will be in dental braces for a certain number of years, it is very easy to focus on that date. Usually, an orthodontist can judge from his or her experience what the typical time frame is to finish treatment. However this depends on many factors. Some factors that would slow down treatment include: broken braces, not brushing well, not coming in for regular appointments, and having dense bone. If you want to get your braces off on time, make sure you co-operate by brushing and flossing well, wearing your elastics, and showing up for your regular appointments.

9. It is easy to transfer or switch orthodontists- Though it may just look like braces and wires to you, every orthodontist uses slightly different wires, brackets, and appliances. Sometimes, the wires that one orthodontist uses would not even fit in the braces that another orthodontist uses. Each orthodontist also has his or her own technique in treating each case. For example, in creating that beautiful smile, some orthodontists may focus on correcting a bite problem first while other orthodontists may focus on straightening the teeth first. Sorting out the finances is another difficult part of switching orthodontists because different offices structure their payment plans in different ways. If you switch orthodontists, you probably will end up paying more money than if you had just stayed with one orthodontist.

10. Headgear is old school- You may think that headgears are only seen in old movies. However, headgears are still used in many orthodontic offices to correct overbite problems. The reason that headgears are still used is that they work…when worn. The good news for you anti-headgear wearers is that many orthodontists now use other ways besides headgears to correct overbites. If you have a large overbite and do not want to wear a headgear, contact your local orthodontist to see if your overbite can be corrected using an appliance other than headgear.